Introduction
The Finnish Spitz, also known as the Finnish Barking Birddog and the Finnish Cock-Eared Dog, is a breed of dog in the Non-Sporting Group. This is the national dog of Finland, and their Spitz ancestors are some of the oldest original dog breeds known. The Finnish Spitz breed was recognized by the AKC in 1987 and AKC approved in 1999.
The long fluffy coat of the Finnish Spitz requires regular brushing to control shedding, but their coat should never be trimmed or it can interfere with their natural heating and cooling processes. The average Finnish Spitz stands 15 to 20 inches high at the shoulders and weighs between 30 and 35 pounds (the females are shorter and lighter than the males).
Temperament
The beautiful Finnish Spitz looks a lot like a little fluffy fox, and they have a very lively, playful, and energetic personality. This is an excellent breed for families as they play well with children of all ages, and they also do well around the elderly and other pet members of the family. The Spitz regards its family as members of a pack, and this alert breed is an excellent watch dog.
The Finnish Spitz is naturally reserved and cautious towards strangers, but they are not naturally aggressive dogs. As an intelligent and energetic breed, the Finnish Spitz needs plenty of activities and exercise or they will become restless and bored. A large back yard is not good enough for this breed, they need to be walked and provided with plenty of opportunities to run.
This breed also requires consistent socialization and training, or they can try to establish their place as the alpha dog in the home. Barking is one of the qualities of the Finnish Spitz, and like their nickname ‘the Barking Birddog’ these dogs love to bark. Consistent training from a young age will help to curb their urge to bark within the home.
Health
This is an extremely healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years and a low risk for hip dysplasia.
History
The Finnish Spitz was originally a tribal hunting and watch dog, and the breed was present in the area now known as Finland as far back as 2000 years ago. Due to the introduction of different dog breeds into their bloodline, the original Finnish Spitz almost went extinct in the late 1800’s. Fortunately lovers of the breed managed to save a few of the original Finnish Spitz dogs and preserved the breed.
Finnish Spitz
Quick Facts
-
Weight: 30-35 lbs
-
Height: 15-20 in
-
Coat: Long, fluffy
-
Temperament: Lively, playful, energetic
-
Lifespan: 12-15 years